Since being diagnosed with autism at 27 and ADHD at 29, Francesca has been very passionate about empowering those on the spectrum to live as freely as possible and being their authentic selves. Through her time working with an autism charity in Barnsley she’s seen how little there is for people on the spectrum, especially women. “There are too many stereotypes and not enough from the voices of actual autistic people. Although my professional life is packed with encouraging positive change and a more autistic-friendly world, I like to keep my home life simple, I’ve found fundraising by doing hiking challenges for the National Autistic Society has kept me grounded and spending as much time as possible with my dog!”

Find out more about the panel here: Big Ideas Panel

Big Ideas Panel, 12:15pm – 1:15pm, The Three Cranes Inn